Why an eBook Might Be Your Best Lead-Generation Tool

Find out how an eBook might be what your business is needing

Even if you never thought you’d be a published author, if you’re looking to generate leads and expand your content marketing offerings, it might be time to think about writing a book—well, an eBook anyway. 

Writing a business book has long been the purview of CEOs and entrepreneurs, but unlike traditional publishing, you don’t need a book deal to write an eBook. These downloadable wonders can be great vehicles for adding to your email list, generating leads, and generally capturing information from prospective clients. 

How an eBook works

Much like a regular book, an eBook can be about whatever you want—but as a content marketing tool, your eBook should probably be on a subject that you’re knowledgeable about and reflects well on your business. Consider which questions you’re asked the most, or which tools you think might be most useful for your clients. 

Then, once you’ve written your book, you can make it available on your website as a PDF or an epub format—and that’s where the magic happens. To download the book, clients must enter their email address, which is where the lead generation begins. Once you’ve captured their email address, you can add them to your lists and contact them about products and services. 

eBook considerations

What is your goal?

This should always be your first question when it comes to content marketing campaigns, and an eBook is no exception. Before you even begin writing, ask yourself what you’re hoping to achieve. If you’re looking to get new email addresses for potential clients, that’s great—but how do you want to prime them for your second or third point of contact? What do you want them to know about you or your services?

Are you looking to demonstrate your authority in an industry? Consider conducting a few interviews and including lots of links and studies to show that you really are familiar with the subject. 

Should you charge for your eBook?

Many companies make their eBooks available for free, considering them an upselling opportunity; the first book is free, but others (or other services) are available at a charge. Plus, the emails captured are well worth it.

Others may choose to sell their eBooks for a relatively small price—$5 or $10, typically—which can add an air of legitimacy and, of course, act as a revenue stream. Whether or not you charge is up to you, but it may help you determine what kind of resources you want to invest in the book itself. 

Should you hire a designer?

While anyone can slap together a PDF, a professional-looking document can make your business look much more put-together—and instills confidence that you’re the type of company who gets the job done right. 

Hiring a designer to create your eBook might cost a little extra, but it’s almost always worth it, especially if you’re confident that it’ll pay for itself in return clients.

Creating an eBook may sound like a lot of work, but in reality, it’s a relatively easy way to capture a lot of emails, encourage return customers, and demonstrate your authority in the field. 

efelle can give your clients something to talk about

efelle creative is a Seattle-based web marketing firm that specializes in website design and development, website content management, search engine optimization, and other online marketing services. Since 2005, efelle has worked with hundreds of businesses to help them with their web development needs. Call us at 206.384.4909 or fill out our online contact form to get in touch with a custom web design specialist.

See Also:

The Gist of Lead Generation

The One Thing You Shouldn't Hack: Your Content Marketing Strategy